Filter cleaning device for an air conditioner and air conditioner having such filter cleaning device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter cleaning devices for duct-type air conditioners are either complex and expensive, inefficient, or risk damaging the filter during cleaning, and often require significant space and manual intervention, which disrupts occupied areas.
Innovation Solution
A filter cleaning device with a rotatable cylindrical brush and a counter surface that moves along the filter, reducing mechanical forces and friction, and is designed to be compact and efficient, using a single motor to rotate the brush and counter surface, ensuring effective particulate removal without damaging the filter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a suction device with a suction nozzle moving along the filter surface is used, then particulate matter can be removed from the filter, but the device becomes relatively complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex suction device with a simple mechanical brush system. The brush is rotated by a single motor to mechanically remove particulate matter from the filter surface, eliminating the need for complex suction nozzles, airflow generation systems, and associated control mechanisms. This mechanical substitution achieves effective cleaning while dramatically simplifying the device structure.
2Reliability
If a high suction force is applied to remove particulate matter, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but the filter may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the cleaning mechanism from high-force suction to gentle mechanical brushing with controlled parameters. The brush is rotated at a controlled speed and pressed against the filter surface with limited force, as evidenced by the brush support structure and rotation control. This parameter adjustment achieves effective particulate removal while preventing filter damage through controlled mechanical action rather than high-force suction.
3Productivity
If a mechanical cleaning member is pressed against and slid along the filter surface, then particulate matter can be removed, but the filter may be damaged and particulate matter may be pushed into the filter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cylindrical brush with curved rotating bristles instead of a flat sliding surface. The cylindrical shape allows the brush to roll and rotate along the filter surface, distributing mechanical stress evenly and preventing concentrated pressure points that could damage the filter or push particulate matter into it. The rotational motion naturally lifts and removes particles rather than forcing them into the filter media.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static sliding motion into dynamic rotational motion. The brush rotates on its axis while being moved along the filter surface, creating a rolling action that continuously renews the contact points and prevents sustained pressure on any single area. This dynamic rotation enhances cleaning efficiency while reducing the risk of filter damage and particulate matter embedding compared to simple sliding motion.
4Productivity
If the brush and counter surface are moved along the filter, then cleaning coverage increases, but the system requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the brush and counter surface into a single integrated cleaning unit that moves together along the filter. Both elements are mounted on the same support structure and driven by the same motor, eliminating the need for separate mounting spaces and complex coordination mechanisms. This merging achieves full filter surface coverage while minimizing the overall system footprint and space requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device maintains air conditioner efficiency while reducing the risk of filter damage and requires minimal space, allowing for automated operation without disturbing occupied areas, enhancing cleaning efficiency and reducing maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the brush and the counter surface are translationally movable together along the filter... the brush has a cylindrical shape and is rotatably mounted so as to be continuously rotatable about a cylinder axis
Implementation Method 2
using a mechanical cleaning member, such as a brush... the brush... engage with one of the filter surfaces during cleaning operation
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present disclosure concerns a filter cleaning device (10) for an air conditioner (1), particularly a duct - type air conditioner. The filter cleaning device comprises a filter (12) to be passed through by an air flow and having two filter surfaces (13, 14) on opposite sides of the filter in an air flow direction, a brush (17) on one of the opposite sides of the filter and a counter surface (22) on the other one the opposite sides of the filter, wherein the brush and the counter surface are translationally movable together along the two filter surfaces, respectively, and wherein the brush has a cylindrical shape and is rotatably mounted so as to be continuously rotatable about a cylinder axis (19). The present disclosure further concerns an air conditioner, particularly a duct-type air conditioner having such a filter cleaning device.